The True Post (Web News) The two-day annual meeting of Western Canadian premiers discussed important issues such as energy, trade, housing and Arctic sovereignty.
Alberta Premier Daniel Smith made it clear during the meeting that his province is growing frustrated with the federal government. “If Premier Mark Carney follows through on the policies we have recommended, the feelings of separation will go away on their own,” he said. Albertans believe that doing business with the United States has become much easier than doing business within Canada.” In contrast, British Columbia Premier David Abe stressed strengthening Canada’s unity. “This is not a time to divide the country, but to move forward together,” he said.
“We should be promoting unity, not division, in these times.” The meeting also discussed major energy projects. Smith expressed his desire to revive the controversial Northern Gateway oil pipeline. Abe cautiously said that B.C. could consider the proposal if the federal government or a private investor moves forward with the project. However, public opinion appears divided on Alberta’s secession movement.
According to the latest Leger survey report, **29 per cent of Albertans support independence, while another 6 per cent want to secede in the form of western Canadian countries. However, British Columbia political scientist Stewart Priest says the movement has little support in his province.
People in Edmonton also had mixed feelings. Zach Smith called it “ridiculous,” saying, “We’re a landlocked province, we’re going to have to live with Canada anyway.” John Reid said, “We have a good deal with Canada.” On the other hand, some acknowledged the frustration behind the separation. Dylan Nicholson said, “Leaders in the east have to take this frustration seriously.” All the premiers agreed that Western Canada is the country’s economic engine, and that position will be presented at a federal premiers’ meeting next month.
At that meeting, a strategy for unity against U.S. trade tariffs will be a high point on the agenda. The conference proved to be a pivotal moment, with the provinces agreeing on several key issues despite their differences and signaling cooperation. Now, eyes are on next month’s federal meeting, where decisions are expected to be made on Canadian unity, economic development and representation of the western voice.
